Fire displaces four from home in extreme cold

Three children, one adult and their dog were able to escape a heavy fire at their home and find shelter while firefighters battled the blaze in extreme cold Thursday morning.

By Jason NevelStaff Writer

Three children, one adult and their dog were able to escape their burning home and find shelter while firefighters battled the blaze in extreme cold Thursday morning.

The fire erupted about 9:45 a.m. at a two-story home at 805 S. 12th St., at the corner of 12th and Lawrence Avenue.

Large clouds of smoke billowed from the second floor, which had extensive damage.The cause of the fire hadn’t been determined.

Deputy Fire Chief Mark Hart said anytime wind chills are below zero — and they were well below that Thursday morning — it can create difficulties for firefighters. Ice can form around the fire truck quickly and ladders might not set in place correctly.

“It’s much more dangerous,” Hart said.

No injuries were reported.

The Red Cross was called to the scene to assist the displaced family with clothing and emergency shelter.